Today, as I was perusing my Facebook feed, I came across this heart-wrenching article. A 10-year-old little girl took her own life as a result of constant bullying at school.

At the end of the post, the author related that the little girl's organs had been donated. The parents felt that, since she was such a giving person in life, she would want to give the gift of life to others after her death.

I obviously don't know everything about this family, but as someone who has been touched by the effects of suicide, I commend the decision of this family to give other families the opportunity to keep their children a little longer on this earth despite having lost their own child so devastatingly. It is amazing to me that, in their time of grief, these parents were mindful enough to realize the blessing they could give to others. I am grateful for men and women who allow their sorrow to make them stronger, and instead of turning to anger for their comfort they turn to giving to find peace.

Please take some time to read this girl's story. Remember today that life is too short to be unkind. And remember that giving doesn't have to end with death.

Happy Thanksgiving to all! Be safe. Have fun. And eat way too much good stuff!!!

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

"I was born with a very rare liver disease (PFIC3) that doctors failed to diagnose for 18 years. Finally at the age of 18 I was diagnosed but unfortunately it was too late to save my liver so I was placed on the waiting list in March 2009. When I was first told about needing a transplant I honestly thought that it was going to be a piece of cake but when I finally able to process everything in my mind, I knew that a long road was awaiting me. Never did I imagine that things would get worse before they got better. My body has continued to deteriorate little by little yet mentally I get stronger each day. I continue to pray that hopefully soon, I will receive my new liver and be able to do the things that I once took for granted."

I don't know Florencia personally, but when I saw this video for the first time I was deeply touched by Florencia's maturity and deep concern for her family. The world could truly benefit from her example of humility and selflessness. That's why I was so happy to hear that on September 15, 2011, Florencia received her liver transplant after over 2 years of waiting. Of course this was a major blessing for her and her family, but it came after 2 long years of sickness, of waiting, and of worrying. 2 years could have been 2 years too long. For so many men, women, and children on the donor waiting lists, 2 days is too long-- let alone 2 years.

Thank you for your support of organ donation. Donor awareness has certainly increased in the past fews years in Texas, but there is still a lot of work to be done. Please continue to help us in our efforts to promote awareness by sporting the TK Foundation Green Tee (contact tkfoundation.blog@gmail.com for more information on obtaining the Green Tee), attending the TK events, and being vocal about the importance of the vital gift of life we can all give by registering to be organ donors.